The Edmonton Oilers are on a mission to climb the mountain and claim the Stanley Cup. With a solid foundation in place, the focus now shifts to the players who could have breakout seasons and propel the team forward. Here's a breakdown of six Oilers players who might surprise and delight fans this upcoming season.
Isaac Howard: The Rising Star
The Oilers' acquisition of Isaac Howard last summer was a strategic move to bring in a player with NHL potential. Howard, a 2025 Hobey Baker Award winner, lit up the AHL with 24 goals and 50 points in 47 games. His performance was impressive for a rookie, and the question now is whether he can make the leap to the NHL. Howard possesses the skill set to become a top-six scorer, but it's up to him to prove it during training camp. The Oilers' management has high hopes, and with his talent and determination, Howard could be the breakout star they've been waiting for.
Vasily Podkolzin: Unlocking Potential
Vasily Podkolzin, a 25-year-old Russian, had a breakout season last year, but can he take it to the next level? Podkolzin's performance in the playoffs was a glimpse of the talent that led to his top-10 draft pick status. With 19 goals and 37 points, he showed that he can be a significant contributor. If he can maintain his top-six role in Edmonton, Podkolzin has the potential to hit new heights and become a cornerstone of the team's success.
Matt Savoie: Rising to the Challenge
Matt Savoie's rookie season was a learning curve, but he showed promise. The former ninth-overall pick contributed 18 goals and 37 points, finding a home on the top line alongside Connor McDavid. The challenge for Savoie is to build upon this foundation and take his game to the next level. If he can stick to the top line, his production is expected to increase, making him a key player in the Oilers' quest for the Cup.
Kasperi Kapanen: Speed and Skill
Kasperi Kapanen, a speedy Finn, had a challenging start to the season due to injuries. However, when he was healthy, he proved his worth. Kapanen's performance in the playoffs was a testament to his ability to make a difference. Playing a top-six role alongside Leon Draisaitl, he found his rhythm and contributed four goals and six points. With a bottom-six role next season, Kapanen will look to build on his impressive playoff run and become a consistent threat.
Devon Levi: The Goalie of the Future
The Oilers' goaltending situation is an area of interest, and Devon Levi is in the running to become the 'goalie of the future.' After a fall from grace in Buffalo, Levi has been percolating in the AHL, showcasing his potential. With a three-goalie rotation in place, Levi will have the opportunity to shine and prove his worth. The 24-year-old's performance will be crucial in the Oilers' quest for a deeper playoff run.
Quinn Hutson: From AHL to NHL
Quinn Hutson, a 24-year-old, had a standout season in the AHL, leading the Condors in scoring with 30 goals and 63 points. His performance caught the eye of the Oilers, who recognized his potential. Hutson's journey from NCAA to the NHL is an inspiring one. If he can crack the Oilers' roster, he could become a productive middle-six player, adding depth to the team's forward group.
In summary, the Edmonton Oilers have a talented group of players who could have breakout seasons. From young stars like Howard and Podkolzin to seasoned veterans like Savoie and Kapanen, the team has the potential to surprise and delight fans. With the right mindset and hard work, these players can contribute significantly to the Oilers' success and help them take that next step towards the Stanley Cup.
